GODERICH – Goderich’s Dirk Wolterbeek is now in the top 100 volunteers competing for a final $100,000 prize in the Kraft Hockey Goes On competition.

Finalists from across the country were announced this weekend, with two days of on-line voting slated to begin March 23.

“He was pleased as punch,” organizer Steve Hewitt said this morning. The Goderich Minor Hockey Association held a pep rally on Saturday night, which was attended by Wolterbeek’s family. “He was just glowing.”

The top five volunteers will be announced April 3 and their local hockey association will be awarded $100,000, while an additional 20 volunteers will be recognized and their local hockey association will receive $20,000, and Hockey Canada will be provided $100,000 to distribute to Learn to Skate programs at the local level.

Saturday’s pep rally raised $2,000 for spina bifida, a cause close to Dirk Wolterbeek, whose daughter’s is affected by the birth defect in which either the brain and spine or only the spine fails to develop properly in the womb.

The local committee has begun rallying the community so that when on-line voting begins March 23, people in Goderich and area will be ready with their votes.

For more information, contact Steve Hewitt at [email protected] or Doug Cruickshank at [email protected]

SCHENECTADY, NY – Don’t be surprised if Bayfield native Jeremy Welsh is permanently added to the roster of the Carolina Hurricanes, predicts Concordiensis, Union College’s student newspaper, after its graduate picked up his first NHL point on Drayson Bowman’s goal against Montreal last week.

Bayfield native Jeremy Welsh

Welsh, 24, signed as a free agent with the Hurricanes at the end of the 2011-2012 season, right after this last game with the Union College Dutchmen. The left-handed forward played his first NHL game two days later.

Welsh splits time between the Hurricanes and its AHL affiliate, the Charlotte Checkers, this season. In 51 AHL games this season, Welsh has notched 11 goals, 10 assists and 21 points.

Please visit the Concordiensis’ website to read the full article.

The swimmers show off their top results against a tough field. From left to right; Natalie 8th in both the 50m backstroke and 50m breast stroke, Sabrina with a 7th in the 50m freestyle and on the podium with a 3rd place bronze medal in the 50m butterfly, and Paul with a 5th in the 50m breaststroke.

BRANTFORD – The Huron Hurricanes sent six swimmers to the West Regional Championships held earlier in February at the Brantford Aquatic Centre.

In order to compete at this level the swimmers had to first make qualifying times in earlier meets in order to be allowed to compete at the Championships against the top swimmers from across Southwestern Ontario.

Representing the Huron Hurricanes at the meet were: Paul McCauley, Jack DeFerrari, Natasha Dobos, Sabrina Dobos, Josephine Noel and Natalie VanNiejenhuis.

Some of the swimmers show off the results. Back row: Jack DeFerrari, Sabrina Dobos, Natasha Dobos, Josephine Noel, Natalie VanNiejenhuis, and Paul McAuley. Front row; Sumiko Noda, Makenna Wormington, Gracin Black.

The Huron Hurricanes attended the WAAC Winter Invitational Swim Meet hosted by Wilmot Aquatic Aces recently.  The Hurricanes fielded one of its largest squads of the season with 23 swimmers making the trip to New Hamburg for the meet.

Here are the entries:

Abby Stevens – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke;

Emily Branderhorst – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Emily Faber – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Emma Bernier – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke;

Emma Nethery- 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Gracin Black – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Jack DeFerrari – 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Jeffrey Boersma – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Josephine Noel – 50 Freestyle 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Kerina Boersma – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Kijana Bootsma – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke;

Lauren Campbell – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Livia Swan – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Maddie Ivatts – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Butterfly;

Makenna Wormington – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Meghan DePutter-Lavis – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke;

Natalie VanNiejenhuis – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Freestyle;

Natasha Dobos – 50 Backstroke 50 Butterfly 400 Individual Medley;

Paul McAuley – 50 Freestyle 50 Breaststroke 400 Individual Medley;

Sabrina Dobos – 50 Freestyle 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly 400 Individual Medley;

Samantha Andrews – 50 Freestyle 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly;

Sarah Sparling – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly; and

Sumiko Noda – 50 Freestyle 50 Backstroke 50 Breaststroke 50 Butterfly.

Dirk Wolterbeek Sr.

HEATHER BOA Bullet News GODERICH – If you’re looking for Dirk Wolterbeek Sr. on a winter’s day, chances are you’ll find him at a Goderich ice pad.

It’s been “a hundred years” since he and his new bride, Mary, travelled to Toronto back in the early ‘70s while he tried out for the Nashville Dixie Flyers, a professional minor league hockey team, but the lure of the rink and the game remains. For the past 29 years, he and Mary have served meals during Young Canada Week and run the canteen at the Goderich Memorial Arena. He has coached his son, his grandchildren and countless other kids in town.

That’s why a committee from the Goderich Minor Hockey Association plans to nominate him for Kraft’s Hockey Goes On program to recognize volunteers in the hockey community. The program awards $1 million in prizes and donations to Hockey Canada affiliated minor hockey associations across the country.

“We’ve gone through many different names throughout the history of Goderich and we felt that Dirk Sr. was right for us to nominate and go forward with,” said Steve Hewitt, who is spokesperson for the committee. “We just felt that Dirk came with the most and he’s a very humble guy, and he’s got a lot of humility.”

“We picked Dirk because of his volunteerism over the years, not only playing hockey in Goderich, he grew up in Goderich his whole life, he pretty much lived at the rink, from a rink rat to coaching, to coaching grandkids,” he said.

Hockey Goes On replaces Kraft Hockeyville, a competition in which Goderich was edged out by Stirling-Rawdon for the top spot in the Ontario region in 2012.

“Through our many years of involvement in community hockey, we realize there are countless unrecognized hockey volunteers and it’s because of them that our favourite sport goes on,” said Jack Hewitt, who is vice-president of marketing insight & services, Kraft Canada. “There are over four million volunteers who dedicate themselves to ensure the game is played from coast to coast. This year, we’re celebrating these heroes of the game.”

Kraft Hockey Goes Onrecognizes the top five volunteers and awards his or her local hockey association with $100,000, recognizes an additional 20 volunteers and awards his or her local hockey association with $20,000, and provides $100,000 to Hockey Canada to distribute to Learn to Skate programs at the local level.

Communities can nominate local hockey volunteers by going online from January 21, 2013 until March 8, 2013 and describing their volunteer in 250 characters minimum and 2,000 characters maximum. A panel will determine the top 100 individuals. Canadians can vote for their local hockey volunteer starting March 23, 2013, for two days. The top five winning communities will be announced March 30, 2013.

The committee is putting together Wolterbeek’s nomination, and will soon begig efforts to rally the community so that when on-line voting begins March 23, people in Goderich and area will be ready with their votes.

“Our job as a committee is going to be getting Dirk out to the schools, getting Dirk out to the community hockey games, dropping pucks, charity games to get the community going ‘oh, we’re at it again. And we need you to vote for two days’,” Hewitt said.

“We’re working on the assumption that he makes it to the top 100,” he said.

Hewitt said it will up to the community to decide how the winnings will be spent, but he pointed out that the ice bill for minor hockey for one year is $100,000.

Anyone who wants to volunteer on the committee is invited to contact the communications team members, either Steve Hewitt at [email protected] or Doug Cruickshank at [email protected]

JIMMY THE GEEK/Special to Bullet News

After a rough couple of weeks, in week 16 I picked 9 games correct and lost sixto give me a record of 47-39 since I began this blog Week 10. With two weeks to go, things are getting pretty tough to call!

Week 16

 (-3.-5) Atlanta Falcons @ Detroit Lions

Pick Atlanta against the spread in this one. I liked the 4-10 Detroit Lions this season, but after last week’s loss against the Arizona Cardinals I just don’t see them beating the 12-2 Atlanta Falcons, the NFL’s top team through 14 games, this week. I hope I’m wrong with this pick, since I am playing Falcons QB Matt Ryan in a Fantasy Football Final, but there’s got to be a lot going on behind the scenes in Detroit right now, and after last season’s success, I can’t see them fighting hard in these last two games of the season.

(-8.5) Carolina Panthers v. Oakland Raiders

The (5-9) Carolina Panthers are a very good football team, even though they are 4 games under .500. Since week 9 they are 4-3, after going (1-6) through the first 8 weeks, with a week 7 Bye. This week they are playing host to the (4-10) Oakland Raiders, who are absolutely horrible. Pick the Panthers to beat the (-8.5) spread, because they are a far better team.

Buffalo Bills @ (-4.5) Miami Dolphins

That’s right, I’m picking the 5-9 Buffalo Bills venture down to South Beach and beat the 6-8 Miami Dolphins. Yes, I may be crazy.

(-4) Pittsburgh Steelers v. Cincinnati Bengals

This game features the 7-7 Pittsburgh Steelers at home to the division rival, 8-6 Cincinnati Bengals. I’m picking the Steelers to cover the spread in this one because they are at home, and until Cincinnati beats them on the road in late December, I just can’t go against the black & yellow.

(-14.5) New England Patriots @ Jacksonville Jaguars

I’d pick the 2-12 Jacksonville Jaguars to cover this gigantic spread if they were playing any other team than the 10-4 New England Patriots. Last week the Patriots were down 31-3 to one of the NFL’s best teams, and were able to claw back versus the NFL’s best defence to tie up the game with a few minutes to go before eventually failing on a last minute drive to close the game. This week, I don’t think the Jacksonville Jaguars stand a chance at beating the spread.

(-6.5) Indianapolis Colts @ Kansas City Chiefs

The 9-5 Indianapolis Colts struck gold, again, in this year’s first round of the NFL Draft when they selected QB Andrew Luck first overall. The 2-12 Kansas City Chiefs are hoping to do the same in next years draft, so I can’t see them putting up much of a fight this weekend. The Colts are fighting to get into the playoffs, and the Chiefs I’d imagine are fighting the days until they can put a nightmare of a season behind them. I’m picking the Colts to cover the spread.

(-3) Dallas Cowboys @ New Orleans Saints

Tough choice on this one, but I think that the 8-6 Dallas Cowboys are going to beat the 6-8 New Orleans Saints, this Sunday. After opening the season 3-4 through the first 8 weeks of the season, the Cowboys have gone 5-2 since, and are tied for the NFC East lead with rivals Washington & New York. If you follow the NFL, then you’ve been in tune to all that has been the 6-8 New Orleans Saints this season. Obviously, Saints QB Drew Brees is a monster on the field, but the Saints defence has been atrocious. I’m glad the spread is only 3pts, because it is quite tough to back Cowboys QB Tony Romo, but I’m picking the Dallas Cowboys to cover the spread against… Drew Brees.

(-5.5) Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles

The 8-6 Washington Redskins are fighting to make the playoffs, and I think they will continue that march on Sunday against the 4-10 Philadelphia Eagles. I’m picking the Redskins to cover the spread.

St. Louis Rams v. (-3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

This is another tough game to call because I think both teams have great things happening. I have picked the 6-8 Tampa Bay Buccaneers a few times since I started writing this blog in week 10, but this week I’m going to have to pick the 6-7-1 St. Louis Rams to cover the spread against them this Sunday. The Buc’s have a decent offence, and a great run-defence, however they have the NFL’s worst pass-defence. I see this as a bad matchup because I believe Rams QB, Sam Bradford, is going to blossom in the next few years, under the guidance of Head Coach Jeff Fisher. Pick the Rams against the spread.

San Diego Chargers @ (-2.5) New York Jets

I’m picking the 5-9 San Diego Chargers to beat the 6-8 New York Jets, this Sunday. After watching week 15’s Monday Night Football game between the Titans & Jets last week, I can only hope for the same performance from Jets QB Mark Sanchez. I would love to see how the home crowd reacts to such a horrible show. I need Chargers TE, Antonio Gates, to have a monster day!!

Tennessee Titans @ (-12.5) Green Bay Packers

No, I do not think that the 5-9 Tennessee Titans will beat the 10-4 Green Bay Packers this Sunday, but I do believe -12.5 is too big of a spread to give them. They are banged up, and even though they are fighting for home field advantage, I just don’t see them having their foot pressed down on the gas pedal for the entire game. They clinched the NFC North title, and a playoff spot last week in a big game against the Chicago Bears on the road, so now it’s time to win and stay healthy. I’m picking the Tennessee Titans to beat the spread.

Minnesota Vikings @ (-7.5) Houston Texans

The 8-6 Minnesota Vikings sport the NFL’s 20th ranked defence, the 32nd ranked passing offence & the 24th ranked offence over all, but they have the best running back that’s played the game since Bears RB Walter Payton. Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is an incredible athlete. To come back and have the season he’s having after tearing his ACL in a game last season, it’s awesome to see. This week they travel down to Texas to face the AFC leading 12-2 Houston Texans. I don’t see Houston losing to the Vikings this Sunday, but I do see them being within (7.5) pts. I’m picking the Minnesota Vikings to beat the spread.

(-13) Denver Broncos v. Cleveland Browns

Peyton Manning.

(-5.5) Chicago Bears @ Arizona Cardinals

At this point it’s hard to pick either team to win this game, but if the 8-6 Chicago Bears win the last two games of the season then there is a good chance that they can still make the playoffs. The 5-9 Arizona Cardinals have a good defence, some games, and that’s pretty much all that can be said about them. I’m picking the Chicago Bears in this huge must win game. Bear Down!

(-2.5) New York Giants @ Baltimore Ravens

I have to go with the reigning Champions in this game. Both teams have been having a rough couple of weeks, but both teams are still formidable forces in their respective conferences. The reason why I’m picking the 8-6 New York Giants to cover the spread against the (9-5) Baltimore Ravens is much like the same reason I picked the Denver Broncos to beat the Cleveland Browns, Eli Manning.

Seattle Seahawks v. (-1) San Francisco 49ers

Bet Seattle at home!

After the brutal Week 14, I’m 38-33! Hopefully this time around will be better.

Philadelphia Eagles v. (-4) Cincinnati Bengals

Last week, Mike Vick’s replacement in Philadelphia, QB Nick Foles, was able to throw up 381 yards and two touchdowns against the NFL’s worst passing defence. He also lead the team in rushing, with only 27 yards and a TD. This week the (4-9) Philadelphia Eagles are playing host to the (7-6) Cincinnati Bengals, who are fresh off a fourth-quarter loss to the Dallas Cowboys, in Cincinnati 20-19. The way I see this game is with the Ravens and Steelers losing last week, Cincinnati still has a shot to win the division where Philadelphia is playing for their coach and pride. I’m taking the Eagles to beat the spread, because I think this will be won by the Bengals within a FG.



(-2.5) Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

The (8-5) Chicago Bears are entering this game after two crushing defeats and a handful of key injuries. The (9-4) Green Bay Packers are coming into this game after two big divisional victories. If the Packers win this game they can lock up the NFC North Division title, and I think that will happen this Sunday. The Bears are too banged up, and with all the players that could come back from injuries to play this game for the Packers, well you can’t build a new offensive line in the middle of the season. I’m taking the Packers to win and cover the spread. I hope I lose this one!



Indianapolis Colts @ (-8.5) Houston Texans


I’m picking the (9-4) Indianapolis Colts to beat the spread in this game. However I can’t see them pulling off the victory against a (11-2) Houston Texans team that was embarrassed by the Patriots in the Monday night primetime game last week. Houston definitely has been sputtering the past few weeks, but they are still a great team, and as good as Colts rookie QB Andrew Luck has been, I think this is the Texans year and they are going to pull off the victory at home this week. I’m picking the Indianapolis Colts to beat the spread in this game.

Baltimore Ravens v. (-2.5) Denver Broncos

The (10-3) Denver Broncos have looked unstoppable since losing to the New England Patriots way back in Week 5. Their opponent, the (9-4) Baltimore Ravens, haven’t looked horrible the past few games, but they certainly haven’t looked like the Ravens of the past few years, and have bitterly lost two consecutive games leading up to this match. Early this week the brass in Baltimore kicked offensive coordinator Cam Cameron out the door, replacing him with QB coach Jim Caldwell. Last year Caldwell was the head coach of the (2-14) Indianapolis Colts, and although he only managed one more victory in his attempt at the role then Cam Cameron (the 2007, 1-15 Miami Dolphins!), the entire pre-2012 Indianapolis Colts team was based around one guy, and when QB Peyton Manning went down last year it was the gigantic organizational screw-up equivalent to Mr. Plaxico Burress going out to a club after a game and shooting himself in the leg. If you’re watching this game then get ready for some flashbacks to yesteryear. I’m taking the Baltimore Ravens defence in this game to beat the spread.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ (-7) Miami Dolphins


(2-11) Jacksonville Jaguars QB Chad Henne’s return to Miami! I can’t think of any rational way to pick the Jaguars to win this game, and I definitely would try if I could. I just think (-7) is too many points to give the (5-8) Miami Dolphins. II have to pick the Jaguars to beat the spread on this one.

Washington Redskins @ (-1) Cleveland Browns

Vegas must have been reading the same article as myself yesterday about Redskins WR letting it slip in an interview that QB Robert Griffin III will not be playing. That must be true because there would be no other reason that the (5-8) Cleveland Browns would be favoured over the (7-6) Washington Redskins. I think this game is going to be a battle between two very promising RBs. Redskins RB Alfred Morris has been the fantasy sleeper pick of the year, amassing 1,228 rushing yards, and seven touchdowns so far in his rookie season. His counterpart, Browns RB Trent Richardson, the top RB taken in the 2012 NFL draft, has carried the Browns with 869 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns. If this is still the spread when Sunday comes, I’m taking the Washington Redskins to beat it.

Minnesota Vikings @ (-3) St. Louis Rams


I’m picking the Vikings to beat the spread. Reason: RB Adrian Peterson.

(-3) New Orleans Saints v. Tampa Bay Buccaneers


I enjoy watching the (6-7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season. In recent weeks Buc’s QB, Josh Freeman, has been playing very well. In-between passes to veteran WR Vincent Jackson, and veteran TE Dallas Clark, rookie RB Doug Martin has been a force on the ground. The Buc’s have a great run defence, only allowing 78.2 yds/gm, however they sport the NFL’s worst pass defence, allowing on average 311.6 yds/gm. That is going to be a huge problem this weekend when they travel to Louisiana to face the (5-8) New Orleans Saints. This looks like it is going to be a big shootout down south and I can’t see Tampa Bay winning one against Drew Brees like that… yet. Next year. This game I’m taking the Saints to cover the spread.

New York Giants @ (-1.5) Atlanta Falcons


It’s quite difficult to pick against a team like the (11-2) Atlanta Falcons, but their opponent this Sunday are the (8-5) New York Giants, and they are one of those teams who always will show up big time in week 15, usually involved in a tight division title race. Falcons QB, Matt Ryan, is having an awesome year, with a few minor hiccups in recent weeks, but how can you pick against Giants QB Eli Manning, late in December, especially when the Atlanta Falcons are somewhat just trying to stay healthy for the post season? I’m picking the New York Giants to beat the spread.

Carolina Panthers @ (-3) San Diego Chargers

I think that this is going to be a great game on Sunday. As much as I dislike (5-8) San Diego Chargers head coach, Norv Turner, I saw something in him last week that made me think he has finally taken the training wheels off his offence. Last week the (4-9) Carolina Panthers beat down the then (11-1) Atlanta Falcons, and I honestly think that next year that NFC division of Tampa, Carolina, New Orleans & Atlanta is going to be a dogfight. I’m picking the Panthers to beat the Chargers this weekend because I think QB Cam Newton is a great athlete, with better receivers, and a better defence.

(-6) Detroit Lions @ Arizona Cardinals

- Last week the Seahawks beat Arizona (58-0). Lions beat the Seahawks (28-24) in week 4.

- Arizona hasn’t won since week 4.

That’s all I need. I’m picking the Detroit Lions to cover the spread.

(-3) Oakland Raiders v. Kansas City Chiefs

Neither of these teams are having a good season this year, most notably the tragic events that surrounded the (2-11) Kansas City Chiefs in recent weeks. Things got a little tougher last week for the Chiefs when WR Dwayne Bowe was knocked out of the final three games with a couple broken ribs. I think that the (3-10) Oakland Raiders will cover the spread in this game that means absolutely nothing towards the playoff picture.

Dallas Cowboys v. (-2) Pittsburgh Steelers


Last week the (7-6) Dallas Cowboys scored (10) points in the fourth quarter to come from behind and beat the Cincinnati Bengals on the road, 20-10, while the (7-6) Pittsburgh Steelers were embarrassed at home by the San Diego Chargers, 34-24. It’s Week 15, so both teams are battered by injuries, but one notable person injured is Cowboys highly talented WR, Dez Bryant, who could miss the remainder of the season due to surgery on a finger. I think that the Dallas Cowboys are picking up their game, and will beat the spread this Sunday afternoon.

San Francisco 49ers @ (-5.5) New England Patriots


I know that the (10-3) New England Patriots are a great team, and they just defeated the AFC’s best, Houston Texans, on Monday Night Football… and even though the (9-3-1) San Francisco 49ERS have had some rough games this year… The 49ers are a damn-good football team, with a couple good WR’s, a great backfield of RB’s, Vernon Davis at TE, and a defence that makes every fan of any team in the NFL jealous (except Da Bears fans!), and now with QB Colin Kaepernick at the helm they have a QB that can pick apart defences with his powerful arm and long lanky legs. If the Patriots win this, I think it’s by less than (-5.5). I’m taking the San Francisco 49ers to beat the spread.

(-1.5) Tennessee Titans v. New York Jets

How can the NFL justify flexing any games when they aren’t flexing this Monday night Tebowfest with a game that people who don’t live in New York would enjoy watching? Seriously, the story lines that the NFL drive down us viewers throats very much annoy me, even more-so then the commercials! In the future I could be going to a game on Monday Night, or Sunday, and the NFL can switch the day and time which will screw over my plans which most likely would cost me quite a bit of money…. But they aren’t flexing this game? I’m taking the Tennessee Titans to cover.

Good luck in your fantasy semifinals!

JIMMY THE GEEK / Special to Bullet News

My apologies over the confusion of my record! Apparently I can pick games right, but can’t do my own math. However, if you go back and look at my picks over the past few weeks, you will see that after going 8W-8L-1Push last week, which was a brutal week for most, I am now 33-24 since week 10.

(-10) Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders
I am a little scared about this 10-point spread that Las Vegas is giving the (9-3) Denver Broncos over the (3-9) Oakland Raiders, but I am picking them to cover it. In the first matchup of these division rivals, the Broncos handled the Raiders quite well to the tune of a 37-6 beat down. I do think Oakland will put some points up on the scoreboard, since they have a decent passing offence (8th), and I do believe that they will surpass their average rushing yards/game total of 82.8, because RB Darren McFadden is said to be playing, but I can’t keep picking against Peyton Manning and there isn’t a better game to stop that trend then this! Pick Denver to cover the spread.

(-2.5) Washington Redskins v. Baltimore Ravens
This is going to be a great football game! The (9-3) Baltimore Ravens are coming into this game after losing an ugly one to their division rival Pittsburgh Steelers in week 13, 23-20. The (6-6) Washington Redskins were able to claw a to a game back from their division rival New York Giants, by squeeking out a victory against them, at home, 17-16 on Monday Night Football. Even with all the injuries that have plagued the Ravens this season, I think they are a top notch team, I’m just not a QB Joe Flacco fan. I think that both teams will run the ball well in this game, but at this point in the season, and even at this point in his career- I have to jump on the RG3 bandwagon. I’m picking the Washington Redskins to win and cover the spread in this game.

Both of these teams are difficult to predict this season. I’m picking the (5-6-1) St. Louis Rams to travel up to Buffalo this weekend and pull off the victory because I think they are the better team on 2 out of the 3 sides of the football. I think Rams QB Sam Bradford is much better then Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, and he also has much better targets in his receiving core. Bills RB’s C.J. Spiller & Fred Jackson have done well averaging 147.9 yds/gm through 12 games this season, but the Rams defence has been able to keep opposing RB’s in check only allowing 114..4 yds/gm. As much as I would like the (5-7)Buffalo Bills to win this game, I have to pick the Jeff Fisher coached St. Louis Rams to beat the spread on the road.

(-3) Cincinnati Bengals @ Dallas Cowboys
Last week the (6-6) Dallas Cowboys almost lost to the Vick & McCoy –less Philadelphia Eagles, at home in Dallas, until they scored 21pts in the 4th quarter to come from behind and save head coach Jeff Garret’s job. This week, I think they don’t fare too well against the (7-5) Cincinnati Bengals, in Cincinnati. I like the weapons that the Cowboys have a lot more than I do the Bengals- Cowboys WR’s Dez Bryant & Miles Austin are dangerous. TE Jason Witten is a consistent downfield monster, and second year RB DeMarco Murray, who will be suiting up in his second straight game after a long injury absence this season, is a beast. I just don’t like head coach Jeff Garret. I don’t like any coach who “freezes” his own kicker? I can’t get over that from last season. I’m picking the Cincinnati Bengals to cover the spread in this one.

(-7.5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers v. Philadelphia Eagles
The (6-6) Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a team to watch in the coming weeks & seasons under rookie head coach Greg Schiano, and I think they are going to beat the (3-9)Philadelphia Eagles. Tampa Bay is horrible against the pass, allowing 309.4 yds/gm through 12 games (32nd), but they counter that well by only allowing 82.3 yds/gm (1st) on the ground. Eagles RB Bryce Brown has been fantasy football gold the last two weeks, if you have him and you’re in the playoffs this weekend…. This is a horrible matchup. Good luck! I’m taking the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to cover the spread.

(-3.5) Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers
This is a great matchup for people with fantasy players on either of these teams in the first round of the playoffs! On any play the (11-1) Atlanta Falcons can take the (3-9) Carolina Panthers deep to their end zone with WR’s Roddy White & second year WR Julio Jones, or pick you apart slowly with future HOF TE Tony Gonzalez. The Carolina Panthers have been a better team the past few weeks, but they need to have AT THE LEAST 1 of their 2 RB’s out run QB Cam Newton if they want any chance of winning on Sunday. I’m taking the Atlanta Falcons to cover the spread.

Kansas City Chiefs @ (-6.5) Cleveland Browns
I think the (2-10) Kansas City Chiefs have been playing better football the past two games, with a win over Carolina 27-21 and a loss to the Broncos 17-9. I also think that the (4-8) Cleveland Browns haven’t been horrible this year, which is what can happen when you draft a RB named Trent Richardson. However, if I were to say this matchup squares the fifth-ranked rushing offence up against the 25th- I wonder how many would pick the Browns to be the latter? I’m picking Kansas City to beat the spread in this game.

Pittsburgh Steelers v. San Diego Chargers
At the time of writing this the odds had not been released for this game. I would be taking the (7-5) Pittsburgh Steelers to win this game, though. Steelers QB is expected to start this game which is good news for anyone who has WR’s Mike Wallace, Antonio Bryant and TE Heath Miller in a fantasy pool playoff this weekend. The (4-8) San Diego Chargers aren’t a team that’s as bad as their record, but I can’t see them winning on Sunday. With last weeks victory against the division rival Baltimore Ravens, the Pittsburgh Steelers still have a chance to win the division. I’m taking the Steelers to win, but it could be a very close game.

Tennessee Titans @ (-5.5) Indianapolis Colts
This is going to be a big divisional test for rookie QB Andrew Luck and the (8-4) Indianapolis Colts versus the (4-8) Tennessee Titans at home in Lucas Oil Stadium, and I do think that the Colts are going to win, but I think it will be within a touchdown. I’m picking the Tennessee Titans to beat the spread.

Jacksonville Jaguars v. (-2.5) New York Jets
This is definitely going to be my least watched game this week. I like the (2-10) Jacksonville Jaguars in this game because QB Blaine Gabbert won’t be starting. Jaguars back-up QB Chad Henne, formerly of the Miami Dolphins, has been playing well the past few weeks filling in for the injured 2nd year QB. The situation I find myself in with this game is a battle of who I think is worse. I’m picking the Jacksonville Jaguars to beat the spread and pick up victory #3 on the season over the (5-7) New York Jets.

(-3) Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings
I don’t like this OT rule where if you win the coin toss and choose to receive the ball, and you get a FG, then the opposing team has an opportunity to score- but if you get a touchdown- Game over. I don’t like that rule… However, the Seattle Seahawks knew last week that the (8-4) Chicago Bears were to banged up on defence to stop them, and the Bears lost a crushing OT defeat at home, in that fashion. I don’t see the Bears coming out of that loss just to lose a divisional game to the (6-6) Minnesota Vikings, when they are tied for the division lead with the Green Bay Packers- Who they will face in the next game. I can’t see that happening, even with the heart of the Bears defence, MLB Brian Urlacher set to miss a few games with a hamstring injury. The Minnesota Vikings have a sensational RB in Adrian Peterson. He’s, in my opinion, the best in the NFL. Though, that’s all that the Vikings have, because WR Percy Harvin will be out again after suffering grade 3 sprained ankle a few weeks back. Next man up! I’m picking the Chicago Bears to win this game and cover the spread.

(-10) San Francisco 49ers v. Miami Dolphins
Last week the (8-3-1) San Francisco 49ers lost a close divisional game to the St. Louis Rams in a bitter OT defeat, and can’t see them not preparing very well for this next matchup to get back on the winning track. After impressing people with his performance against the New Orleans Saints two weeks ago, 2nd year QB and newly minted starter, Colin Kaepernick couldn’t get it going against the Rams, throwing for 208 yards and running for another 84. I’m hoping that in this game the veteran 49ers RB, Frank Gore, can get his legs going against the (5-7) Miami Dolphin’s 8th ranked rushing defence (allowing 97.7 yds/gm). It’s a big spread, but I’m still taking the San Francisco 49ers to beat it.

Arizona Cardinals @ (-10.5) Seattle Seahawks
The (7-5) Seattle Seahawks win at home, and the (4-8) Arizona Cardinals haven’t won since week 4. I don’t think that the Seahawks will beat the Cardinals by (-10.5), but I do think they will win. I’m taking the Arizona Cardinals to beat the spread in a game that is not much better than last weeks Cardinals 6-7 loss to the New York Jets.

New Orleans Saints @ (-5) New York Giants
Both of these teams are coming into this game off crushing defeats to big division rivals. In a humbling 23-13 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, (5-7) New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees threw for 341 yards, 0 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. That’s his worst stat line in many, many weeks. I can’t see him coming out this Sunday afternoon and having another brutal day. To only lose by 10 points when you hand the other team the ball 5 times, means you’re defence played a decent game. The (7-5) New York Giants lost a close game to the division rival Redskins in a great Monday Night Football game. In any week, it’s difficult to bet against either of these teams and as we come down the stretch they are going to get even tougher! I’m taking the New Orleans Saints to beat the spread in this game.

Detroit Lions @ (-7) Green Bay Packers
This is the second great NFC North Divisional matchup going on this weekend, and it squares the (4-8)Detroit Lions, who have lost 4 close game in a row leading up to this game, against the (8-4)Green Bay Packers who are tied for the division lead with the Chicago Bears (who they play next week). The Packer as playing great football right now, which is exactly what everyone expects, but and I’m not saying that they’re going to lose this game, because I don’t think that… but I’m taking the Detroit Lions to beat the spread because they’re a good team. They have a defence that can stop anyone, they have the leagues top ranked passing offence, and RB Mikel LeShoure can run the ball well. I think this game will come down to a field goal, like the past 3 Lions games (Indy, Hou, & GB in week 11). I’m picking the Detroit Lions to beat the spread.

Houston Texans @ (-3.5) New England Patriots
I’m taking the (11-1) Houston Texans to travel up to Foxboro and beat the (9-3) New England Patriots. The Texans, although still with only 1 loss on the season, have been playing some spotty football the past few weeks, but I think that they have had this game circled on their calendars since the beginning of the season. They have won 11/12 only losing to the Green Bay Packers in a week 7, 42-24 let down. As good as the Patriots have been in years past, this year I think that the Houston Texans are the better team. I’m taking the Houston Texans to beat the Patriots on Monday Night Football.

JIMMY THE GEEK/Special to Bullet News

In my Week 12 picks, against the spread, I picked 11 games right, 4 wrong and one push (-3 Houston beat Detroit by 3). Overall I am 25-16 with three pushes since week 10.

Week 13

Huge week in Fantasy Football because, for most leagues, it’s the final week of the regular season and to many it’s do or die. Big production from Big players this week.



(-3.5) Atlanta Falcons v. New Orleans Saints

The first match between these two big-play teams, three weeks ago in week 10, seen the then undefeated Atlanta Falcons lose to a New Orleans Saints (31-27) team that could only muster 2 wins throughout the first 8 games. In the two games that have followed, the Saints have beaten the Oakland Raiders, and lost to the San Francisco 49ers. Atlanta has begun another win streak with wins over the Arizona Cardinals and division rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This game is going to be a shoot-out on Thursday night! Both teams have prolific passing offences that can put up touchdowns at will through the air, and rushing offences that really haven’t been anything special through the first 11 games. Falcons RB Michael Turner has been relatively quite this season leaving many to say he’s old and can’t keep up his previous years production, and while it’s true he’s old in RB years (30) I think he’s been used sparingly so that he’s healthy & fresh for the last half of the season and playoffs. Watch for him to have a big game this Thursday night, which will open up the Saints secondary so Falcons QB Matt Ryan can have his way through the air. I see the (10-1) Atlanta Falcons getting revenge on the division rival (5-6) New Orleans Saints, and covering the spread.


(-4) Chicago Bears v. Seattle Seahawks


I’ve said it a few times before – the (6-5) Seattle Seahawks only win at home. This week they traveling into the windy city to square off against the (8-3) NFC North Division leading Chicago Bears fresh off a division win against the Minnesota Vikings, who lost to the Seahawks IN SEATTLE week 9, 30-20. After suffering a ankle injury at the beginning of the season, Bears RB Matt Forte went down in last weeks victory with another ankle injury, although it’s said to be not as severe and there is a possiblility of him playing on Sunday. While that may actually be the case, don’t expect him to. Smoke & mirrors. Bears back-up RB Michael Bush can fill in quite well for the injured Forte, and with the Bears facing division rivals Minnesota & Green Bay in the following weeks- Expect Forte to be out. Also, Bears WR Devin Hester sustained a concussion last week so I highly doubt he’ll be on the field, and that could be a great thing for Bears fans because he can’t seem to catch the ball this year! The Chicago defence is entering this game banged up also. Last week potential Defensive Player of the Year CB Charles Tillman sustained a bone chip in his foot, however he escaped serious injury and should suit up. The Seahawks should have beaten Miami last week, however they couldn’t finish the job and allowed the Dolphins to score 10 points in the final 5 ½ minutes, capped off with a game winning 43-yard field goal by Dolphins kicker Dan Carpenter. I’m picking Da Bears to win this game, but I don’t think they will cover the spread.



Minnesota Vikings @ (-9) Green Bay Packers

Both NFC North Division rivals are entering this game on the heels of defeat. Last week the (7-4) Green Bay Packers lost to the New York Giants 38-10 in New York. The (6-5) Minnesota Vikings lost to division rivals the Chicago Bears. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think the Vikings are going to beat the Packers, I just think that the Packers are dealing with too many injuries to cover the (-9) spread. I can’t imagine the Packers to lose two consecutive weeks, especially when that second opponent is a important division game in a season where it will be so close at the end that these games might determine the tiebreakers. Even though he wasn’t able to hit pay dirt last week, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson was able to gain over 100 yards against a stingy Bears defence. If Packers defensive monster Clay Mathews is out again, I think Peterson will have his way that day. I give the entire Packers organization a lot of credit so I am picking them to win, but not by 9. Pick the Vikings against the spread in this one.

 (-5.5) Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans

The (10-1) Houston Texans were able to slip past Detroit last week just barely, albeit with a blown call on a touchdown that most definitely should have been called off. This week they continue their march to the Super Bowl with a divisional game against the (4-7) Tennessee Titans. Last week the Tennessee Titans lost a hard fought game to the Jacksonville Jaguars, who almost upset the Houston Texans the previous week, however lost in overtime. The first time these two rivals squared off, this season, was in week 4. The Houston Texans won that matchup 38-14. The last time one of these teams swept the season series was back in 2007 when the Titans won both matches. This year the Houston Texans are arguably the best team in the league, sporting only one loss which came against the Green Bay Packers, 42-24 in week 6. The only way I see Houston losing this game is if Titans RB Chris Johnson can produce on the ground. The Texans are allowing on average 87.5 yards per game, however when he faced the stingy Bears defence in week 9 he was able to gain141 yards so it can happen. I’m going to pick Houston to win this game and cover the spread.

Miami Dolphins v. (-7.5) New England Patriots

This is my pick of the week. In the first match-up between these two AFC East division rivals we see the division leading (8-3) New England Patriots venture down to South Beach to take on the (5-6) Miami dolphins in a game where the Patriots can lock up the division, earning a playoff berth. Last week the Dolphins beat the visiting Seattle Seahawks to the score of 24-21, winning on a 43-yard field goal on the last play of the game & the New England Patriots embarrassed the division rival New York Jets, 49-19 in New York. The last time the Dolphins beat the Patriots was week 13 back in 2009, 22-21. I like picking underdogs, and give credit to a team that has nothing to win other than pride. I’m sure the Dolphins players would love to come out with a big win on Sunday, as I’d imagine they have no interest seeing a division title being won on their turf, in week 13, to any team other than themselves. Maybe I’m all alone on this, but I’m going to pick the Dolphins to win. I think they will show up instead of rolling over, and they will cover the spread.

(-4.5) Detroit Lions v. Indianapolis Colts

Defensive monster Ndamukong Suh has escaped a suspension for another dirty move in the primetime spotlights of the Lions annual Thanksgiving Day loss and should come out of Sundays tilt with a big game. The (4-7) Detroit Lions are much better than what their record says. Last week they almost handed the (10-1) Houston Texans their second loss of the season, but were on the end of a brutal blown call when the Justin Forsett rushing touchdown was upheld, when he clearly was down. The (7-4) Indianapolis Colts are coming into this game after beating the Buffalo Bills in Indianapolis last week. I can’t see the Detroit Lions losing 4 games in a row, especially to a rookie QB, even though that rookie QB is the heir to Peyton Manning. I’m picking the Lions to win this game by a lot more then (-4.5).

Jacksonville Jaguars v (-6) Buffalo Bills


(4-7) Buffalo Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has been quite efficient in the last 7 games, only throwing 4 interceptions total, starting in week 5 at San Francisco. (2-9) Jacksonville Jaguars back-up QB, Chad Henne, formerly of the Miami Dolphins and filling in for injured 2nd year starter, Blaine Gabbert, has done a great job the past two games in relief. Two weeks ago, in a week 11 match-up against the AFC leading Houston Texans, Henne tallied 354 yards through the air, which is the most that the Jags have put up all season. In last week’s tilt Henne lead his team to their second victory of the season, throwing for 261 yards against the Tennessee Titans. In recent weeks Jags WR’s have been awesome. Look for 2nd year WR Cecil Shorts, and rookie WR Justin Blackmon to try for some big plays this Sunday against the Bills secondary. I think that the Bills defence will force the Jaguars to throw the ball on Sunday because Jags RB Maurice Jones-Drew is still unable to suit up and take the field. I don’t like the (+6) for the Jaguars. I think that the Buffalo Bills will squeak out a close victory. Take Jacksonville against the spread.

(-3) Carolina Panthers v. Kansas City Chiefs

When I had seen that the (3-8) Carolina Panthers were playing the (1-10) Kansas City Chiefs this week, I jumped for joy. I noticed that during a fantasy football draft back in August, and then decided that Panthers Heisman winning QB, Cam Newton was going to be my guy this year. The Chiefs have a whole bunch of issues, apparently, and even though the Panthers aren’t good examples themselves, I think Carolina is a much better all around team. The only positive thing going for the Chiefs this season is their rushing attack which averages 145.6 yds/gm. RB Jamal Charles is a monster when he can get free and not fumbling the ball. The Chiefs have the second most amount of fumbles so far this season with 10. The Panthers have only been able to hammer out 3 wins this season, but in every game they have been close. The only game they weren’t even close to winning was back in week 3 against the New York Giants. I’m picking the Carolina Panthers to win and cover the spread.

(-7) San Francisco 49ers v. St. Louis Rams


I’m going to copy & paste the same thing I wrote almost 3 weeks ago when these two division rivals squared off in week 10, at San Francisco:
“I don’t think much time needs to be spent explaining why I believe the 6-2 San Francisco 49ers are going to hand the 3-5 St. Louis Rams their sixth loss. Even though they play twice a season, the St. Louis Rams have only beaten the San Francisco 49ers a whopping three times since the beginning of the 2005 season. I am a big Jeff Fisher fan, and truly believe that in the years to come that the St. Louis Rams are going to be a competitive team, however I don’t think they stand a chance to beat the 6-2 49ers. I don’t like the spread though. I have too much respect for Jeff Fisher, and that 49ers loss to Minnesota earlier in the season scares me about this team. San Francisco for the win, but I think it’s within 11.5.” They tied that game 24-24! The San Francisco 49ers are now (8-2-1) and the St. Louis Rams are (4-6-1). I still think very much the same as what I wrote when I scribed that, however now I think the 49ers are going to cover the (-7) spread. I like what I have seen from 49ers back-up QB, Colin Kaepernick, and I think he is the QB of the future for them. Pick the 49ers to win & cover the spread.

Arizona Cardinals v. (-4.5) New York Jets


I think that the (4-7) Arizona Cardinals defence is going to have a field day against QB Mark Sanchez and the (4-7) New York Jets. The Cardinals haven’t been able to win a game since week 4 against the Miami Dolphins, but they still have a defence that is allowing only 327.9 yds/gm through 11 games so far this season. Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson has 4 interceptions so far this season and must be looking forward to the opportunity to pick off Jets QB Mark Sanchez and possibly force Jets Head Coach, Rex Ryan to replace him with back-up QB Timothy Tebow. After spanking the St. Louis Rams on the road in week 11, the Jets were hoping to take some of that momentum back home last week against the division rival New England Patriots, but they ended up being embarrassed. I am going to pick the Arizona Cardinals to get win #5 this week and to beat the spread, but watch out for Jets RB Shonn Greene because I think he’s due for a big game.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers v. (-7) Denver Broncos


I know that the (8-3) Denver Broncos have been playing some great football this season with future Hall of Fame QB Peyton Manning at the helm, and I know that I haven’t taken the Broncos in one of these blogs, but I blame it on the people who make the schedule: I’m taking the Buccaneers! The (6-5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been playing some great football the past few matches. They almost beat the league leading (10-1) Atlanta Falcons last week, losing by 1 point. The Falcons were able to limit Buccaneers RB Doug Martin to 50 yards on the ground with 2 touchdowns. I think this is going to be a great game on Sunday, and I can’t call who’s going to win it but I do think it will be within a touchdown. Take the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to beat the spread.

Baltimore Ravens v. Pittsburgh Steelers

At the time of writing this Las Vegas hasn’t put out a spread for this game as it surely depends on if Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is healthy enough to play. Just a hunch though…. I doubt he is, and the longer there is no definitive answer leads me to think it’s less likely. Imagine a (9-2) Ravens team with 6 days of preparation for Steelers back-up QB, Charlie Batch. They’re doing him a favour right now… It’s a safety issue!! The Ravens have been more of a passing offence this season, and I think that is a strategy to keep Ravens star RB Ray Rice healthy in the second half of the season & playoffs, much like I think the same with Falcons RB Michael Turner. The first match between these two bitter rivals was only two weeks ago in week 11 where Baltimore came out with a 13-10 victory. This is going to be a great defensive tilt and I think the Ravens will beat the Steelers by (+7).

San Diego Chargers v. (-1.5) Cincinnati Bengals


If the Baltimore Ravens beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the (6-5) Cincinnati Bengals lose to the (4-7) San Diego Chargers then the Baltimore Ravens will lock up the AFC North Division title, and I see that happening this Sunday. Historically, under Head Coach Norv Turner, the San Diego Chargers have been a second half of the season team. This year will be different because they’ve dug themselves quite the hole and thinking playoffs for the Chargers is quite unrealistic, but they’re still a good team coming together on the offence side of the ball, and a defence that can make big plays. They almost defeated the (9-2) Ravens last week until somehow Ravens RB Ray Rice carried the team on his back on a 4th & 29 yard conversion that summed up the Chargers season & Norv Turner’s time in San Diego- Failure. It might not be the popular pick, but I’m going to take the San Diego Chargers to pull off a win at home this Sunday.

Cleveland Browns v. Oakland Raiders

At the time of writing this Vegas had not given out and spreads for this game, but when they do I think they’re going to favour the (3-8) Cleveland Browns. After almost squeaking out a win down in Dallas two weeks ago, losing in overtime, they were able to beat the division rival Pittsburgh Steelers last week. The Cleveland defence was able to force 8 Steelers turnovers, and only coughed up 1. This week they will face the interception-prone (3-8) Oakland Raiders QB, Carson Palmer. There is the possibility we will see Raiders back-up QB Terrell Pryor on the field this Sunday since Carson Palmers struggling to limit his turnovers. Browns win.

(-10) Dallas Cowboys v. Philadelphia Eagles


Taking the (5-6) Dallas Cowboys to cover a (-10) spread? I must be crazy! Especially since the Cowboys are only averaging 78.7 yds/gm on the ground, good enough to be the worst rushing offence in the league! For all you Dallas Cowboys fans that cry about losing RB DeMarco Murray… The Jacksonville Jaguars have a better rushing attack and they’ve been without STAR RB Maurice Jones-Drew for just as long. The reason I’m picking the Cowboys to beat the (3-8) Philadelphia Eagles is because they are healthy, and they have great WR’s in Dez Bryant & Miles Austin as well as future Hall of Fame TE, Jason Witten. Philadelphia, much like Kansas City, is a team with many apparent issues. Starting QB Michael Vick is out again with a severe concussion, leaving the job up to back-up Eagles QB, Nick Foles. Starting RB, LeSean McCoy is going to be out again with a concussion, however back-up RB Bryce Brown filled in quite well last week on Monday Night Football. I think that the Dallas Cowboys defence will step up to the plate this week. I’m picking Dallas to win by more than 10 points.

Washington Redskins v. (-2.5) New York Giants


What a great Monday Night Football game! The (7-4) New York Football Giants taking on the (5-6) Washington Redskins in a HUGE divisional game! The Giants are enjoying a 2 game lead in the standings right now over the both (5-6) Redskins & Cowboys, but a win this Monday by the Redskins would pull them within 1. The first time these two rivals squared off, back in week 7, seen the New York Giants victorious by the score of 27-23. I think that this game will be another close, hard fought battle in Washington D.C. I’m picking the Washington Redskins to win this game and beat the spread.

Bullet News GODERICH – A match between the Western Mustangs and the Guelph Gryphons women’s hockey teams at the Maitland Recreation Centre next week will support a campaign to ensure everyone have access to YMCA program, regardless of background or finances.

The puck drops Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The event also includes chuck a puck, prizes, mini-game presented by the West Coast Wave at intermission and team mascots.

A silent auction starts at 6 p.m.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Sky Harbour Room, Brian Gosling, manager of the Western women’s hockey team, will make a short presentation to parents and players called Building Your Roadmap, for those who might be interested in pursuing hockey at the university level.

The Strong Kids campaign supports about 18 per cent of members at the Goderich-Huron YMCA to ensure children, youth and families can participate in swim lessons, camp, recreational programs, fitness and belong as members to the Y.

The annual campaign goal is to raise $55,000 and to date it is at 70 per cent of its goal, said Ann Marie Thomson, who is general manager of the Goderich-Huron YMCA.

“The need in our community is greater than ever, and because we never turn anyone away, we are looking for all the community support we can get.  We are encouraging folks to come out to see some terrific female athletes who promise a great game of hockey, and to make a donation in whatever amount you can to support this year’s campaign,” she said.

Donations are also accepted online.